JAN/FEB 2023 £3.55 www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, NEWS, VENUES, OFFERS AND MORE Sustainable styles Eco-friendly fashion Dream a little dream Fairytale-inspired venues WIN! A fairytale escape awaits at Ballygally Castle in Northern Ireland Colourful, festival-inspired styled shoot All thi gs bright and beautiful THE POWER OF A FLOWER Blooms for all seasons REAL-LIFE LOVE STORIES Romantic real weddings
Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LD T: 01752 220782 E: weddings@newcontinental.co.uk W: newcontinental.co.uk NewContinentalHotel continentalhote newcontinentalhotel
REGULARS 5 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 7 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 17 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 61 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice 96 COMPETITION A fairytale escape awaits at Ballygally Castle in Northern Ireland CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 VENUES 19 DREAM A LITTLE DREAM Magical, fairytale-inspired venues 27 SPOTLIGHT ON...SOUTH CORNWALL We reveal where to wed On the cover Laura Farmer, the talent behind the lens at Freeformimages Photography based in Devon is the photographer of our colourful cover this issue. It was taken as part of a styled shoot at Higher Holcombe in Ottery St Mary, Devon and all is revealed on page 51. To book Laura for your wedding, visit www.freeformimages.co.uk 67 96 FEATURES 51 ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL Wedding venue Higher Holcombe located in Ottery St Mary, Devon provided the sustainable outdoor setting for this vibrant, festival-inspired shoot 55 LITTLE GEM Shop big-day jewellery and accessories 59 SAY IT WITH ROSES Valentine’s-inspired wedding flowers 64 CALLING ALL ANIMAL LOVERS We’ve put together the ultimate guide to pets at weddings to help you create the perfect day 3
REAL WEDDINGS 32 SOMETHING BLUE Harriet and Matthew’s wedding reception at Bovey Castle enjoyed a light blue and white theme 39 LOVE ACTUALLY The Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth provided the beautiful backdrop for Kelly and Christopher’s real wedding 44 THE SEASON FOR LOVERS Aisa and Andy’s rustic-inspired summer wedding was decorated with a navy and silver theme HONEYMOONS 90 HONEYMOON NEWS The newest openings and honeymoon destinations 92 ON THE DOCK OF THE BAY Sample a taste of the Mediterranean on the dreamy island of Crete 94 THE PERFECT GETAWAY We’ve rounded up some of the best mini-moon destinations in Europe 97 DOWN BY THE RIVER Discover The Great House in Sonning, part of the Coppa Club collection of hotels and restaurants GROOMS 87 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 88 MIDNIGHT MAGIC With celestial-themed weddings becoming all the rage, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite out-of-this-world products FASHION & BEAUTY 67 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 69 STRIKING SILHOUETTES Make your entrance in style in a fabulous fishtail dress, a fairytale-inspired ballgown or a slinky little number 75 SUSTAINABLE STYLES These designers offer something green as they promote their latest collections created using eco-friendly fabrics 78 BRIGHT AND BOLD Bridesmaids will love the colourful dresses and accessories in store this season 80 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with these must-haves for the bride-to-be 82 THE TRUTH ABOUT SUGAR Find your way to wedding wellness by managing that sweet tooth with help from expert nutritionists 83 THE HAIR NECESSITIES Achieve wedding-ready locks with multi-awardwinning celebrity hair stylist and TV hair expert Vicki Lord 84 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 80 78 88 97 17 4
With Christmas and the cold snap a distant memory, the next important date in the diary is Valentine’s Day. For those of you putting the finishing touches to a V-day wedding, this issue is packed full of finishing touches to help. For those of you who have just started your wedding planning journey – maybe you became engaged over Christmas or New year – then take inspiration from our real-life wedding couples and our colour-pop styled shoot! There’s also expert advice, all the latest wed-day news, an exclusive offer with the Duke of Cornwall Hotel that’s not to be missed plus fashion, beauty, grooms and honeymoons. Until the next issue... Claire x ISSN 2397-4133 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor Melissa Cullen | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Artwork & Content Coordinator Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahm@county.wedding ACCOUNT MANAGER Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tonys@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing.. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is published six times a year. @YourDevonCornwallWedding @CWM_YDCW @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com Claire Ridley, Editor Happy Valentine ’s Day cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS Searching for a dream Devonshire wedding venue? Check out Holwell Farmhouse on page 19. These Bride and Wifey weekend bags are a must for any mini-moon! All is revealed on page 67. Award-winning The Little Red Bus is a must for any Valentine’s Day wedding! Read all about it on page 7. Turn to page 32 to read all about our real-life couples this issue! This image was taken by wedding photographer Paul Keppel who we chat to on page 61. EDITOR’S LETTER 5
Ashridge Great Barn www.ashridgegreatbarn.co.uk 01837 352025 weddings@ashridge-court.co.uk Romantic Rustic Barn with Outdoor Space Beautiful Pet Friendly Grounds Planning Support and On the Day Coordination 0 1 3 9 2 8 3 2 4 8 3 e v e n t s@ l o r d h a l do n h o t e l . c o . u k A beaut i ful locat i on for your perfe c t day www. l o rdha l donho t e l . co . uk LORD HALDON COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL U n i q u e · I n d i v i d u a l · D e l i c i o u s C H E E S E C A K E S P E C I A L I S T S T: 01271 379944 E: enquiries@westcountrycheese.co.uk www.westcountrycheese.co.uk
Nearlywed The latest news from both counties TOP DEVON PHOTOGRAPHER WINS AWARDS Kingsbridge-based Martyn Norsworthy of Norsworthy Photography has announced several recent awards wins including being a winner of the Global Rounds at The International Wedding Awards. The International Wedding Awards recognizes the best of the best in the wedding industry. Martyn has won in the Wedding Photography Category, following on from winning the Local Rounds for the South West UK and the Country Rounds for the UK. The Awards are based on existing clients’ feedback, quality of service, the website and the quality of the finished product. Martyn says, “ I am so happy, the hard work and many hours dedicated to each couple shows that it pays off.” He adds, “I couldn’t do this without my fabulous team, Julie, James and Marko who all assist in creating the memories we provide to all of our happy couples.” Martyn also scooped a Silver Award at the WPE Awards for his black and white image of Giovanna and Daniel on their wedding day at Shilstone House, near Modbury. Martyn said, “I am so pleased, this is the first time entering the WPE World Photographer Europe International Awards. This Image has won Bronze in the One Eyeland Awards, so I’m excited to receive a Silver now!” Finally, Martyn was also awarded three Bronze Awards in the Guild of Professional Photographers Image of the Month competition, which typically attracts almost 1500 entries each month. The Guild of Photographers is a highly regarded national photographic body and its members are dedicated to enhancing their skills in the art, craft and profession of photography. Martyn told us, “I’m very happy to have won these awards, with one month left in the 2022 competitions it’s all to play for!” The three award-winning images were all shot at local real weddings including at Trevenna barns and Blackpool Sands. To find out more and to book Martyn, visit www.norsworthyweddings.com NEWS THE MOLE RESORT LUXURY HOTEL AND LODGES COMING TO DEVON L+R Hotels has launched The Mole Resort as the latest venture in a portfolio which spans the UK, Continental Europe, the US and the Caribbean, in many of the world’s most sought-after locations. Coming to Devon in the summer of 2023, The Mole Resort is a luxury lodge destination set in 125 acres of countryside next to the River Mole, with Exmoor, Dartmoor and the world-class North Devon beaches nearby. The resort combines stunning lodges, hotel rooms and superb dining with a myriad of activities. Fifteen premium eco-conscious lodges are already complete and available for booking along with hotel rooms at the existing Highbullen Hotel. By Summer 2023, The Mole Resort will expand to 58 lodges and feature a fully-refurbished hotel as part of the £23 million redevelopment investment. Adrian Bradley, leading the project for L+R Hotels said: “Our simple message is ‘fabulous stays and active days’, which is exactly what The Mole Resort is all about. Not only will our guests be able to relax in their lodges surrounded by spectacular countryside views, but there’s plenty for them to do too. From swimming, fitness classes, golf and tennis, to pickleball and trout fishing, it’s the perfect place for families, groups and couples to do as much or as little as they like and our resort team can’t wait to welcome them.” Guests can choose a hotel room from £80 per night, or one of the self-catering lodges, which sleeps up to eight people from £219 per person (based on eight people sharing a lodge for three nights). All lodges boast a large deck with outdoor dining, hot tubs, fully-equipped kitchens and superb beds plus many of the lodges accommodate dogs. During a stay at The Mole Resort, guests have the flexibility of self-catering or can eat in the resort restaurants enjoying seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. For more information on The Mole Resort and to book visit www.themoleresort.co.uk To book existing rooms at Highbullen Hotel visit www.highbullen.co.uk CONGRATULATIONS! The Little Red Bus chauffeur-driven VW hire and photo booth lovingly named Rory recently won an award at The South West Wedding Awards. Based in Devon, he is available for weddings throughout the region and also in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Owner Laura Farmer is also the talent behind the lens at Freeformimages Photography. Turn to page 51 to see our exclusive shoot from her and a talented team of local suppliers – they even made it on the cover of this issue! To book, visit www.freeformimages.co.uk/thelittleredbus 7 LOCAL NEWS
LUXURY FAMILY HOTELS HAS LAUNCHEDTHEIRWAGGY TAILS TEA TIME AND A LA BARK MENU Luxury Family Hotels are pleased to announce the launch of their new Waggy Tails Tea Time and A La Bark menu. Whether couples and families are heading to the coast of Cornwall or setting off for a cosy getaway in the Wiltshire countryside, Luxury Family Hotels encourage their guests to bring their furry friends along with them. More now than ever, there is no excuse to leave them behind with the collection’s newly launched Waggy Tails Tea Time and posh-pooch A La Bark menu! Served in each of the five Luxury Family Hotel lounges, or outside during the warmer months, the Waggy Tails Tea Time is a real feast. Start healthy with paw-dit-ites of crunchy carrots, apples, and cheese followed by lick-a-licious liver cake, pawnut butter biscuits and canine carrot cake with pawsome frosting. This is washed down with a thirst-quenching bowl of H20 and a puppacino! For the pooches whose parents keep an eye on their waistline, Luxury Family Hotels has also launched their A La Bark menu. Choose from a barkingly good beef supper or a waggingly delicious chicken dinner comprising of slow-cooked chicken in doggy gravy with crushed potatoes and vegetables. For something sweet, finish with a homemade peanut butter bone-shaped biscuit or frosty paws ice cream. Also available is a beer for dogs which is non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and packed with vitamins and minerals. The A La Bark menu has been carefully curated with a doggy’s taste buds in mind, but also their health. All dishes are homemade using ingredients from the hotel’s kitchen*. Dogs like to dress up smart for dinner, which is why Luxury Family Hotels have prizes up for grabs for the bestdressed doggies! Turn up for tea looking dapper, and share a social post using #WaggyTailsAtLFH and be in with a chance of winning a paw-fect prize! Each of the five Luxury Family Hotels in the UK lends itself perfectly to family getaways which include the furry kind. With huge grounds for adventures and exploring and many beautiful walks and trails on each of the hotel’s doorsteps, dogs will want for nothing. Hounds will love walking in the rolling countryside or by the coast and Luxury Family Hotels has something for everyone and every breed. *except the frosty paws ice cream which is sourced from a reputable supplier Waggy Tails Tea Time is served for £15 per pooch all year round at all five Luxury Family Hotels and includes all the treats listed above. Dishes from the A La Bark menu vary from £2 to £5. To book, visit www.foweyhallhotel.co.uk GREEN MICHELIN-STARRED CHEF JEFFREY ROBINSON JOINS NEW ESTABLISHMENT HARBOURHOUSE Jeffrey Robinson, one of the first chefs to have attained a green Michelin star, has announced that he is joining the Devon-founded business beachhouse group as executive head chef of their new Cornish outpost – harbourhouse in Flushing, Cornwall. In early summer 2023, the team will open their new collaborative ‘force of nature’ proposition at harbourhouse, setting a new standard in Cornish hyper-local dining and hospitality. Tamara Costin created the original restaurant, bar and café, beachhouse, on the National Trust-protected South Milton Sands in the South Hams. Alongside her partner William Speed, she opened schoolhouse, situated at the heart of the wild and enigmatic Flete Estate, garnering food critic acclaim and a cult-like local and national following. The couple recently announced their purchase of the former Seven Stars pub in the pretty Cornish village of Flushing. They are currently reshaping the free house building which is set right on the waterfront. Alongside Jeffrey’s appointment, they are also announcing the evolution of the Flushing establishment’s name, harbourhouse, that honours the centuries-long history of marine trading. Tamara Costin says, “Cornwall has been on our list for a very long time and one of our favourite dining destinations has always been The New Yard Restaurant. Now with Jeffrey joining us at the rechristened harbourhouse, we’ve had an immediate meeting of minds, philosophies and passions, and our coming together is like a simple, but certain, synergy.” Jeffrey Robinson has been executive chef of The New Yard Restaurant and The Pantry on the Lizard Peninsula in southwest Cornwall since 2016 which became one of the first restaurants in the UK to be awarded a green Michelin Star for gastronomy and sustainability practices, alongside a 3 Rosette achievement. There are still only 23 green Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK, and Jeffrey has focussed on serving his take on modern Cornish cuisine using ingredients grown on his own farm which were created using a philosophy of permaculture. Jeffrey says, “I have been looking for the right opportunity to grow my sustainability-focused practice and, as if by design, Tamara and William came along at this critical juncture. I’m so inspired by the opportunity to build the new harbourhouse kitchen together, to co-develop our shared passion for hyper-local sourcing and to push Cornish cuisine.” To find out more, visit https://beachhousedevon.com NEW HEAD CHEF AT SCARLET HOTEL, CORNWALL The Scarlet Hotel has appointed Jack Clayton as the latest head chef of the hotel’s sea view restaurant in Mawgan Porth, Cornwall. Since starting his career in 2009, Jack has achieved 3 Rosettes and 2 Bib Gourmand awards. His move to Scarlet comes as an opportunity to advance a lifelong passion for sustainability, fusing flavours and foraging. Perched on the southwest coastal path, Scarlet’s restaurant offers captivating views of the coastline, easily explored from the hotel. Stroll from coast to cuisine and discover an exquisite meal of seasonal, responsibly sourced food alongside slow-aged wine, expertly paired by the in-house sommelier Nick Bryant. The restaurant is open to both residents and non-residents for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner daily. The day menu is a casual affair which seamlessly transitions into more of a fine dining experience during the evening with a seven-course tasting menu, inspired by Jack’s commitments to organic local produce. Highlights of the menu include white gazpacho featuring almond, cucumber, grape, mint and garlic, and sea trout pastrami complemented by horseradish, cucumber mustard seeds and soda bread to start. Mains showcase locally caught fish, such as whole John Dory served with leek, parsley, lemon butter sauce and herring eggs and dessert choices range from chocolate choux with hazelnut, dulce de leche and vanilla ice cream to peach with mascarpone parfait, almond cookie and rosemary. Jack’s philosophy for the Scarlet restaurant is centred on showcasing the journey of each ingredient, from the catching of the fish to the artful presentation of each dish. The menu at Scarlet is a daily celebration of nature and to this end, Jack’s plans include coastal foraging courses for hotel guests and achieving a Michelin green star in 2023. To book, visit www.scarlethotel.co.uk 8
Made specially for you The beauty of true bespoke cake design is that everything is possible. From traditional to modern, we make your cake to match your personality. www.cakesincornwall.co.uk 07508 848295 | infoedibleelegance@icloud.com DawnsEdibleElegance We sell our dresses at a minimum of half the RRP. We have an array of dresses, all designer, various size, style and colours, so why not pop along and try a few, let’s see if we can find your “I do” dress. BRIDAL RELOVED BARNSTAPLE 1st & 2nd floor, 4 Cross St, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 1BD 01271 375 877, barnstaple@bridalreloved.co.uk www.bridalreloved.co.uk
NEW NEWQUAY FITNESS BUSINESS WINS AT NATIONAL AWARDS Newquay-based business Moore Movement has managed to take the top prize for Best Fitness Business Cornwall at the 2022 England’s Business Awards. The award comes after the owner of the personal training facility, Brendan Moore, set up the business a year ago. Operating out of Nansledan, Newquay, the fitness studio aims to make a positive impact on people’s lives through its offering of a bespoke mini facility for private and small-group personal training where Brendan works as the head personal trainer. Moore’s vision is to focus on the quality of the service being offered to the individuals and groups that he coaches, and it is this attention to providing unmatchable service that got him nominated for England’s Business Awards in 2022. Moore Movement was nominated by one of their members, at which point a mystery shopper from the awards committee is sent to assess the business and voting is opened up for the public to also place their votes. Moore Movement then made it to the final, going up against two other fitness businesses from Cornwall, and Brendan was delighted to come back to Newquay having won Cornwall’s Best Fitness Business 2022. Brendan says, “We are so happy to be able to bring the top prize back to Newquay with us. We pride ourselves in offering a professional, motivating and supportive service to all our members with a modern facility and top-of-the-range equipment. This award reflects the hard work to get to the position that the business is in today, and I am proud of those who have helped us to achieve this.” He continues, “From the start, we have constantly focused on maintaining good relationships with all of the members at Moore Movement, and this award shows that they appreciate the effort we put in day in, day out to make our training service as good as it can be. I’d like to invite anyone that is looking to make some positive changes to their health and fitness to give our 30-Day trial a go, which gives you access to our full Small Group PT membership at a fraction of the price.” For more information, visit www.mooremovefit.com NEWQUAY SKINCARE CO WINS UK PLATINUM BEAUTY AWARDS A Newquay-based restaurant owner who was inspired by her lockdown sea swimming adventures to start a new eco-skincare line has won a top UK award for natural products. Kelly Mather, co-founder and co-owner of the much-loved Kahuna restaurant, was driven to create Me&thesea Skincare, a product range that is sustainable, eco-friendly, recyclable and plastic-free, all with a transparent supply chain. Lockdown meant Kelly, and her partner Ryan, had to close Kahuna, and Kelly found she now had the time to focus on her dream of formulating and creating her skincare as a business. She had already taken up wild swimming as a hobby and inspired by her sea-based daily adventures, coupled with the need to nourish her skin afterwards, she became aware of how her current habits surrounding her skincare purchases were damaging to the natural environment. As a result, Kelly set about researching and teaching herself all aspects of the skincare production process. From sourcing ingredients, formulating and testing each product, to hand making each batch, filling and packaging and certifying the range, she worked day and night with a mission to establish a business around her inspiration. Her range now sports an impressive 10 products which she sells online, at local markets and at a local health food shop which she has built a relationship with and now stocks most of her range. Kelly focused hard on building her brand, a website, social media and a set of industry relationships. Me&thesea Skincare was recently shortlisted in the Janey Loves Platinum Awards, which highlight and bring the best in natural products and services into the mainstream. The awards were founded by Janey Grace Lee, a UK natural health expert and former co-host of the BBC Radio 2 show, Steve Wright in the Afternoon. The Janey Loves Platinum Awards focus on selecting the best health and well-being products in the United Kingdom. The selection and judging processes are based upon real-life testing by a renowned panel of judges made up of industry experts, key trendsetters, celebrities, skin nutritionists and respected top professionals in their fields who know only the best when it comes to health and well-being products. Kelly’s Lemongrass and Lime Coffee Scrub won a Platinum Award for Best Body Care and Bath Product in the Skincare and Beauty category. Kelly Mather says, “I have always been interested in beauty, maybe even a little obsessed. The power of plants in beauty fascinates me and making my own body scrubs and massage oils have always been a hobby of mine. Then lockdown happened and, for once, I had the time, and energy, to pour into my long-time vision – and Me&thesea skincare was born. The natural ingredients I source are sustainably harvested. You can feel the goodness from the first application. This is the way beauty should be. It should be good for us and good for the planet at the same time.” Kelly continues, “Winning the Janey Loves Platinum Award is a major achievement. It has confirmed my belief that I’m on the right track in every way with my own eco-skincare range. It also inspires yet more consumer trust in my brand, given the rigorous expert panel testing through the Janey Loves Platinum Awards process. Plus, as an added extra, it’s made my husband and daughter feel very proud, which is lovely as they’ve been super supportive with Me&thesea Skincare.” To shop, visit https://meandtheseaskincare.co.uk BIRD & BLEND TEA CO HOSTS WORKSHOPS PERFECT FOR HEN PARTIES Bird & Blend Tea Co. will host its brand new workshop throughout January and into 2023 for those keen on discovering and learning the mastery of potion making whilst mixing tea, and the science behind the magic. The two-and-a-half-hour workshop will be taking place at 12 of its stores across the UK including one in Exeter. The workshop invites its guests to take an immersive step into conjuring up shimmering, colour-changing and whimsical potions. All guests will experience a world of tea blends and learn how to create elaborate tea-infused potions. The expert Bird & Blend Tea Co. mixologists will guide guests through the sensory experience and arm them with the secrets to recreate the magic at home, afterwards. For a perfect gift experience priced at £45, visit www.birdandblendtea.com Photography of Me&thesea Skincare courtesy of Evie Johnson 11 LOCAL NEWS
RICK STEIN GROUP LISTED IN UK’S 100 BEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR The Rick Stein Group has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For. The accolade sees the company appearing at number 88, as revealed at the Best Companies Live event and is a testament to Stein’s ethos: ‘Our people are our greatest asset and we love making them smile’. Rick Stein Group has also been placed at number 14 in the Top 25 Leisure & Hospitality’s Best Companies to Work For. The Best Companies survey is the largest in the UK, surveying both employees and management to determine a true measure of workplace engagement and inspiring all businesses to build a happier, healthier workforce. With nearly 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Rick Stein Group is proud to be featured alongside the very best companies to work for in the country. The award recognises the hard work and dedication of the entire Rick Stein team from Padstow in Cornwall, through Marlborough, Sandbanks, Winchester and up to Barnes in London. Looking after and developing the team, and creating fulfilling careers in hospitality, are of the utmost importance to the Rick Stein Group. Nurturing a culture around listening, engagement and transparency supported the company achieving a 50% increase in survey responses from the team compared to 2019 when they ranked 55 in the UK’s Best Companies to Work For 2020. Rick Stein Group offers a wide range of initiatives that support and develop the team. The quarterly Stein’s Value Awards recognise and reward those living by the company values and encourage engagement from around the business to nominate and celebrate peers. They also have a range of opportunities for members of the team to learn and grow, from in-house and on-site knowledge training to supplier visits and product tastings. The internal coaching programme engages top talent by focusing on individual development needs whilst providing exposure to new opportunities through one-to-one coaching sessions with a senior manager. Furthermore, giving to charity has always been a priority for the Rick Stein Group and they have recently announced a major new partnership with One Feeds Two, aiming to donate 225,000 meals a year to children in some of the poorest parts of the world. Charlie Stein commented, “To be recognised by Best Companies in this way is something to be immensely proud of. Ever since my parents started the business in the 1970s, looking after our staff, as well as our customers, and making sure they feel valued has been a priority. We want everyone to feel that they’re part of a team, that they belong, and that they feel motivated to come to work. What we’ve achieved here is down to the hard work of everyone across all of our business and I’m delighted for the whole team.” To find out more, visit www.rickstein.com RIVER COTTAGE KITCHEN & STORE OPENS The new River Cottage Kitchen & Store has officially launched. Open from 9 am until 5 pm seven days a week, with breakfast served from 9 am until 11.30 am and lunch from 12 pm until 3 pm, this casual cafe is located within the famous River Cottage HQ - a stone’s throw from the recognisable farmhouse and gardens. Whether dining al fresco on the outdoor terrace or enjoying the light and airy space indoors, guests can soak up the breathtaking, ever-changing views of the East Devon countryside. Cyclists, adventure seekers and four-legged friends are all welcome, and there’s plenty of space to park cars with additional spaces reserved for the disabled access. The River Cottage Kitchen & Store champions organic, local and seasonal food with a farm-to-fork ethos. The new menu has been developed by Gelf Alderson, culinary director of River Cottage, for more than ten years. His talent has long been recognised through his work with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall to create the delicious menus served at River Cottage. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall said, “I’m very excited about our brand new Kitchen & Store at River Cottage HQ which is now open. It’s a casual space for breakfast, lunch, drinks and cakes as well as a store where you can buy our River Cottage products and books. We’re not currently taking bookings so you – and your dogs! – can simply drop in to check it out and see the beautiful views across the valley. It’s a beautiful space in a beautiful location – at the top of the hill from the farm, but not on the farm itself - and I hope to see some of you here soon.” To find out more, visit www.rivercottage.net WINYOUR DREAMWEDDING AT RIVER COTTAGE River Cottage will soon make one lucky couple’s dream come true with a complimentary wedding, set in their famous 100-acre organic farm on the border of Devon and Dorset. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall will personally handpick the winning couple’s names out of a hat at the end of January 2023. The prize will provide the setting of River Cottage HQ as the venue for the couple to celebrate their special day. The prize includes canapés, a three-course seasonal meal served with coffee and petit fours, plus accommodation in the famous River Cottage farmhouse for six people on the night of the wedding. Surrounded by sensational Devon countryside and organic farmland, this dream wedding location offers exclusive use of its grounds for the day. As seen on the River Cottage television series, the spectacular backdrop features the renowned River Cottage Farmhouse Kitchen Garden, a beautifully restored 18th-century Threshing Barn and grounds full of fruit trees, streams and meadows. With superb food and drink at the core of River Cottage, the kitchen team pride itself on unforgettable celebratory feasts, using the very best local and seasonal produce. In the lead-up to the big day, their chefs will be on hand to help the lucky couple design a perfect, tailor-made menu. From the outset, River Cottage’s dedicated wedding coordinator will work closely with the lucky couple-to-be, from bringing their conceptual ideas to life, right through to ensuring the big day runs smoothly - and most importantly, is stress-free and fun! The competition is open to couples who book a wedding to take place between 1st September 2023 and 31 March 2024. Entry into the prize draw will be on receipt of a signed contractual booking and payment of a 25% non-refundable deposit, during the promotional period of 25 September 2022 to 31 January 2023 (inclusive). Full terms and conditions are available at www.rivercottage.net/win-your-wedding www.benjaminthomaswheeler.com 12
“Hank, Honey & Hatty are stunning and we could not have asked for anything better on our Wedding day. Thank you Honey Bugs for making our day so special” Carl & Cara Honey Bugs is based in Cornwall and provides vintage VWWedding campers for your big day! www.honeybugscornwa l l .co.uk T: 01209 822383 E: contact.honeybugscornwall@gmail.com handsomehank01 BugsCornwall bugscornwall MERCURE ROUGEMONT HOTEL Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3SP Tel: 01392 410237 Email: H 0H6-SB3@accor.com .mercure.com EDDING F IR SUND Y 19TH FEB 2023 | 11 M-3PM Free entry ith bubbly & canapés. Lots of local Devon-based suppliers. Beautiful historic venue ith a choice of three licensed private function rooms. NE BROCHURE ith a choice of three packages starting from £3500 for a minimum of 50 guests.
Wedding packages from £400 w w w . m a d d i e l i l i . c o . u k / w e d d i n g s Capturing moments to last a lifetime www.sonaturalphotography.co.uk E: info@sonaturalphotography.co.uk | T: 01752 515849 | M: 07877 602456 | Contact Jess & Dave - 2 Photographers - Free engagement session (with all day package) - Free consultation - Private online gallery - 6 sneak peaks within a week - Support throughout the planning - 5 Star reviews 10% Discount with this advert please quote CWM Venetia Norrington Photography Perfect Day Ceremonies Creating memorable and completely personal ceremonies for your perfect day. www.perfectdayceremonies.co.uk www.instagram.com/perfectdayceremonies Sabine@perfectdayceremonies.co.uk Venetia Norrington Photography t Day Ceremonies morable and completely personal onies for your perfect day. w.perfectdayceremonies.co.uk tagram.com/perfectdayceremonies ne@perfectdayceremonies.co.uk Perfect Day Ceremonies Creating memorable and completely personal ceremonies for your perfect day. www.perfectdayceremonies.co.uk www.instagram.com/perfectdayceremonies sabine@perfectdayceremonies.co.uk Paul Keppel Photography
BOVEY CASTLE APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER One of Devon’s most popular hotels has unveiled a new general manager to help lead an exciting new chapter. Dean Gunston has been promoted by The Eden Hotel Collection to take the reins at Bovey Castle, in Dartmoor National Park. Gunston has worked at Eden for more than 13 years, with Bovey becoming the fourth hotel he has managed within the group. He joins this week from his position of senior general manager of sister hotels The Greenway Hotel and Spa in Cheltenham and Brockencote Hall Hotel in Worcestershire. Gunston said, “I’m thrilled to be joining the team at Bovey Castle, and it is a real honour to help lead such an iconic hotel into a new chapter.” He adds, “Bovey is already recognised as one of the UK’s most iconic luxury country house hotels and is a real flag-bearer for exceptional hospitality in Devon. I look forward to helping continue its proud tradition of delivering the best experience for our guests.” Bovey Castle was acquired by Eden in 2014 and has since won numerous awards including five red AA stars in 2017 for its exceptional hospitality – the AA’s highest possible accolade. The hotel offers 60 bedrooms along with 22 self-catering country lodges tucked away within 275 acres of beautiful countryside. It also features Smith’s Brasserie, 22 lodges, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and its Elan Spa, while on-site experiences include falconry, archery, cider and sloe gin-making and 4x4 off-road driving. Mark Chambers, group managing director, said, “Bovey Castle has long been regarded as the jewel in the crown of the leisure industry in the South West and I am excited for its future with Dean at the helm. Dean has been with us as a group for more than a decade now and brings with him a tremendous amount of experience and passion to his new post.” To find out more, visit www.boveycastle.com and turn to page 32 to see our real wedding at the castle! EDITOR LOVES These images taken by www.upartphotography.com at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth show what an incredible wedding venue this is. Turn to page 17 to take advantage of our exclusive offer and see the real wedding of Kelly and Chris on page 39. https://thedukeofcornwall.co.uk DEVON PROPERTY LISTED IN THE TOP 50 BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN THE UK The Top 50 Boutique Hotels in the UK were recently unveiled featuring Devon-based hotel Lympstone Manor. The muchanticipated list is curated and voted by leading industry experts, hoteliers, travel writers and influencers. This year’s Highest New Entrant is Lympstone Manor at number five on the list. Based in Devon, this country house is set on 28 acres of grounds home to its 10-acre vineyard, elegant estuary suites and cosy shepherd huts by the water. Chef Michael Caines MBE heads up the Michelin-starred kitchen and focuses on seasonality and local produce. Chris Lowe, group director of hospitality and manufacturing at William Reed says, “We’re delighted to be revealing this fantastic new list and see such strong movement in this year’s Top 50 Boutique Hotels. Our number one has jumped up 18 places from last year and the highest new entry is number 5 which is a testament to those teams’ stellar efforts. With staycations continuing to be a focus for Britons, it is encouraging to see such a strong regional presence this year and such a wide range of unique hotel experiences to enjoy.” The Boutique Hotel list follows on from the success of the Top 50 Cocktail Bars, as well as the long-running and ever-popular Top 50 Gastropubs. Now, consumers have a complete and definitive guide to where to eat, drink, and sleep throughout the UK. To find out more, visit www.top50boutiquehotels.com THE ARUNDELL OFFER TAILOREDWEDDING PACKAGES The Arundell hotel in Lifton, Devon invites couples to visit and talk through their dream day to create a bespoke package tailored to their needs. Packages include the wedding breakfast, drinks and an evening buffet. Exclusive use is available for all 24 bedrooms at this stunning hotel with no added fee. The hotel benefits from a lake and pretty tiered cottage gardens which provides a beautiful backdrop for photographs. The chef works with each couple to plan their menu and a fully stocked bar featuring local beers and tasty wines is a highlight. The wedding planner is also on hand every step of the way. To find out more and to book, visit www.thearundell.com 15 LOCAL NEWS
Boringdon Park Golf Weddings Plymbridge Road . Plympton . PL7 4QG 01752 339113 Call or email Jon Grainger for more details jon.grainger@boringdonpark.com www.boringdonpark.com A premier venue in Plymouth for the perfect wedding Plan your dream wedding with an exclusive personalised package at one of Plymouth and Devon’s favourite wedding venues. With stunning panoramic views across Plymouth Sound and Dartmoor, Boringdon Park is an elegant and modern venue thats the perfect location for your special day. Set in the heart of 200 acres of delightful grounds savour the magnificent vista as you approach our ever-popular venue up the impressive driveway – views that will give you a memorable backdrop to an unforgettable day. We are now booking weddings for 2024-2025 with limited late availability for 2023. PROFESSIONAL AND RELIABLE CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN HIRE IN DEVON AND CORNWALL We can supply you with a range of chocolate fountain packages no matter your event. Impress your guests with luxury fountains of all sizes, or even go for a beautiful drink fountain to get everyone talking. WWW.ABSOLUTECHOCOLATEFOUNTAINS.CO.UK 07525 768 455 | info@absolutechocolatefountains.co.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glori us landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk An tst n i e r i Manor House set i l ri s l sc e ardens • Licensed for Civil C emoni s l sive use of the h le ilding £6 0 • Ceremo i s fo up t 95 ests • v i g c l ati s up to 120 guests e Ma or H se Old Town Street, a lish E 7 9 P | 01626 863 388 to nclerk@dawlish.gov.uk w.da lish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 38 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.da lish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e r ouse ld To treet, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 0162 8 3 388 town l lish.gov.uk w .dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 gu sts • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor ouse Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk@d lish.gov.uk w .dawlish.gov.uk e Manor Hous utst ndi g e rgi n nor use set in lorious l ndsc pe arde s i e sed f Civil Ceremonies • Exclusiv use f t wh le ildin Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening cel brati ns p to 20 gu sts e Manor House ld Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 863 388 townclerk dawlish.gov.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk a or st di g eorgi n anor House set in gl ri s l sc ped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01 2 863 388 townclerk@dawlish.g v.uk www.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor Ho se An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 86 3 8 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk w.da lish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House s t in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 86 3 8 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk w.dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • License for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use f the whole building £600 • Ceremonies for up to 95 guests • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor House Old Town Str et, Dawlis 7 P | 01626 86 8 townclerk@dawlish.gov. w.dawlish.gov.uk e a r se An outstanding Georgian Manor House set in glorious landscaped gardens • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive use of the whole building £6 0 • Ceremonies for up to 95 gu sts • Evening celebrations up to 120 guests e Manor Hous Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP | 01626 86 3 8 townclerk@dawlish.gov.uk .dawlish.gov.uk e Manor House n outstanding eorgian anor ouse set in glorious la dscaped garden • Licensed f r 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FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN ENTER ONLINE VIA OUR WEBSITE WWW.YOURDEVONCORNWALL.WEDDING SUITE DREAMS The Duke of Cornwall is Plymouth’s first luxury hotel. This Gothic Grade II listed building with feature windows and turrets has a tower that dates back to 1863. The stylish canopy entrance leads the way through the stunning revolving door entrance, to a decadent interior filled with historic features. The grand function rooms provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, brimming with glittering chandeliers and a Grade II listed sweeping staircase. Wedding ceremonies take place in these stylish function suites and can accommodate a range of party sizes from 10 to 300 guests. Options include the stately Ballroom, a grand space with beautiful chandeliers, atmospheric lighting, a fixed stage for entertainment, a private bar and a dancefloor, or the impressive Dining Room with its spectacular domed ceiling and lavish features. The choice of wedding packages allows couples to create their dream day for an affordable price, www.thedukeofcornwall.co.uk Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding has teamed up with the Duke of Cornwall Hotel to offer one lucky couple a mini-break worth £1500 including a two-night stay in the Tower Suite, dinner at The Top in the tower on the first night, a full English breakfast, a hamper of goodies plus a 10% off voucher for the Mayflower Wedding Package. Take advantage of these great giveaways WIN A TEAM HEN BUNDLE Fresh to Team Hen’s digital shelves are these new bride-to-be must-haves. The new Bride Make Up Bag (£14), complete with gold and chenille sewn-on patches, is ideal for stashing all those daily make up essentials in – and will look pictureperfect in the getting ready snaps on the big day! The matching Bride Weekend Bag (£38) is your new go-to holdall for both the hen do and honeymoon and can be paired with the coordinating Bride Travel Pouch (£16). All of the items are available to order in the brand’s blue Wifey design too! Check out https://teamhen.co.uk County Wedding Magazine readers have the chance to win a Team Hen Bride bag bundle including a make up bag, weekend bag and travel bag worth £68! Freebies &OFFERS Photography of the Duke of Cornwall courtesy of www.upartphotography.com FREEBIES & OFFERS 17
A wedding is a unique and wonderful day for every couple. What better way to celebrate your special day than in a beautifully decorated marquee in a picturesque setting? Whether you’re thinking of hosting a small intimate gathering, or a lavish event with no expense spared, our quality selection of marquees can be tailored to your guest list and requirements. We’ll ensure every aspect of your wedding is catered for, from working with you to design the perfect theme, to providing subtle lighting, heating and furniture to keep guests comfortable throughout the day and night. & DEVON SOMERSET MARQUEES ASH FARM, STOODLEIGH, DEVON EX16 9QF | 01398 351 210 | enquiries@dsmarquees.co.uk | www.dsmarquees.co.uk | DSMarquees Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True! An English Historical Landmark Bickleigh Castle bickleighcastle.com Bickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 8RP | 01884 855 363 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com BC_Devon_Cornwall_Wedding_mag_July2019.indd 1 20/07/2019 10:16 Bickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon EX16 8RP | 018 4 855 63 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com www.bickleighcastle.com
Dream a little dream Check out these magical, fairytale-inspired venues What ’s new? GWEL AN MOR SCOOPS ACCOLADES AT CORNWALL TOURISM AWARDS Gwel an Mor, based in the Cornish village of Portreath, has been awarded Bronze in the Holiday Park of the Year category at the recent Cornwall Tourism Awards. The park was awarded Silver in the Wedding Venue of the Year category and also picked up Silver in the Spa & Wellbeing Experience of the Year award. The resort was acquired by Cove UK in March 2021, which operates holiday and residential parks in the US and now runs a series of UK resorts including Seal Bay Resort – the UK’s largest park – and the award-winning Argyll Holidays portfolio. Since acquiring Gwel an Mor, Cove UK has built on the park’s existing success by investing in new facilities and accommodation, ensuring it remains a luxury destination for holidaymakers coming to Cornwall. The resort is home to Feadon Wildlife Centre which runs various wildlife experiences, a seafood restaurant, Cornwall’s largest indoor soft play area and climbing walls, an indoor archery range, a tennis court and a swimming pool. Another pivotal part of the resort that won an award was the Wellbeing Spa, which boasts the Elemental Herbology product range which secured the spa a Silver award. Another Silver accolade was given to the wedding barn and yurt, where many beautiful ceremonies take place each year. Blair Cowan, general manager at Gwel an Mor, said, “The team at Gwel an Mor strive to provide a five-star experience for our guests, holiday home owners and event attendees, and it is brilliant that this effort has been recognised.” Blair continues, “We’re delighted to win an award not only in the holiday park of the year category but also as a leading wedding and spa venue. Gwel an Mor’s role as a leading wedding venue is really important within the community and region, and we always want local people to come and enjoy their time with us during such special life events.” To find out more about weddings at the resort, visit www.gwelanmor.com HOLWELL FARMHOUSE IN BAMPTON, DEVON OPENS AS A WEDDING VENUE Located just north of Bampton close to Exmoor National Park, Holwell Farmhouse has been transformed into a luxurious rural retreat and a wedding and events venue, thanks to a sensitive renovation by owner Ollie Greenslade. Set in 65 acres of stunning Devonshire countryside, Holwell Farmhouse was purchased by Ollie in August 2019. Two years and a sensitive restoration later (navigating numerous lockdowns), the property is now a sought-after, exclusive hire venue for weddings, family gatherings, celebrations and corporate retreats very much connected to its surrounding countryside and wildlife. Ollie says, “From drawing an idea to creating a physical and finished product is a great feeling and sense of accomplishment. Holwell Farmhouse was formed by the love of the outdoors, wildlife, farming and people. Combining all of those, you end up with a rural space for groups and families to relax in yet explore and a safe haven for nature. We’re so excited to open the doors and to finally put this farmhouse on the map.” To find out more about weddings at the property, visit https://holwellfarmhouse.co.uk 19 THEMED VENUES
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